A patient has just received a plaster cast for a fractured wrist. What instruction should you give to the patient to ensure proper maintenance of the cast?
Frequently apply heat to the cast to promote circulation.
Keep the cast elevated above heart level, especially for the first 48 hours.
Cover the cast with wet towels to keep the skin cool and hydrated.
It is recommended to insert small objects under the cast if itching occurs.
Elevating the casted arm above heart level is important to reduce swelling and promote healing. By keeping the arm elevated, especially within the first 48 hours, blood flow can be controlled to minimize pain and discomfort. As the cast is made of plaster, it is imperative to keep it dry to maintain its structure and avoid skin irritation or infection. It is not necessary to apply heat to the cast as this could cause burns or discomfort. It's also inappropriate to insert objects under the cast as this could damage the skin and compromise the cast's position.
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